1859 (S) Seated Liberty Dime

Coin Details

Auction Record

$100,000 MS65 07-01-2009 Stack's

Description

Part of the Seated Liberty Dimes 1837-1891 series, the 1859 (S) Seated Liberty Dime is a dime from the San Francisco Mint. The U.S. Mint produced 60,000 examples, making this the lowest mintage among 3 mint variants, representing only 6% of total production. The obverse features Liberty seated on a rock, holding a pole surmounted by a Phrygian liberty cap in her left hand and a shield inscribed LIBERTY in her right and the reverse displays an agricultural wreath enclosing the denomination (through 1859) or a wreath enclosing ONE DIME with the inscription UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (1860-1891). Struck during the California Gold Rush era, when vast quantities of western gold transformed the American economy and led to new denominations. Coined at the San Francisco Mint, which transitioned from Gold Rush-era production to its modern role producing proof and collector issues. Estimated market value ranges from $335 to $37K depending on grade and condition. Struck in 90% silver, 10% copper, weighing 2.48 grams, 17.9 mm in diameter, with a reeded edge. Cataloged as PCGS #4621.